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Fort Monroe’s 400-Year Legacy

Terry Brown (National Park Service)

In late August 1619, twenty or more enslaved Africans arrived in Virginia at what’s now called Fort Monroe. They were the first Africans documented in British North America. We speak with Terry Brown, Fort Monroe’s park superintendent about how the park–and America–are commemorating their arrival.

15 mins

The Descendants

Walter Jones, Verrandall Tucker, and Vincent Tucker

We hear from the Tuckers, the descendants of the very first African-American baby, and learn about their work to uncover the stories of their ancestors. Hear more from the Tuckers on our sister show, BackStory.

3 mins

A Conscious Voice

Synnika Lofton (Norfolk State University)

Poet Synnika Lofton reflects on 1619 and shares how he channels his political thoughts into art.

9 mins

Honoring Gabriel’s Rebellion

Ana Edwards (Virginia Commonwealth University)

When Ana Edwards first heard the story of Gabriel, an enslaved blacksmith who attempted a rebellion in Richmond, Virginia, she knew she needed to share it. She explains how new efforts to commemorate the lives and rebellions of enslaved Virginians in this Confederate capital are reshaping Richmond today.

17 mins

Written in the Margins

Joshua Poteat

Richmond poet Joshua Poteat shares how he has been inspired by Gabriel’s story.

7 mins

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